Stored-value card with multiple member housing

ABSTRACT

A financial transaction card includes a first member, a second member, a side wall, at least one substantially rigid connection member, and an account identifier. The first member defines a first panel, and the second member defines a second panel. Each of the first panel and the second panel are substantially planar. The side wall extends between the first panel and the second panel such that the first panel is spaced from the second panel to define a void between the first panel and the second panel. The at least one substantially rigid connection member extends through the first member and interfaces with the second member to at least partially couple the first member to the second member. The account identifier associates the financial transaction card with an account or record having a value associated therewith. Other cards, assemblies and associated methods are also disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of and claims priority under 35U.S.C. §120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/843,744, filed onJul. 26, 2010, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 12/250,411, filed on Oct. 13, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,770,802,issued Aug. 10, 2010, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/846,997, filed Aug. 29, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,434,735,issued Oct. 14, 2008, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/038,011, filed Jan. 18, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,290,713,issued Nov. 6, 2007, all of which are incorporated herein in theirentireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Stored-value cards and other financial transactions cards come in manyforms. A gift card, for example, is a type of stored-value card thatincludes pre-loaded or selectively loaded monetary value. In oneexample, a customer buys a gift card having a specified value forpresentation as a gift for another person. In another example, acustomer is offered a gift card as an incentive to make a purchase. Agift card, like other stored-value cards, can be “recharged” or“reloaded” at the direction of the bearer. The balance associated withthe card declines as the card is used, encouraging repeat visits to theretailer or other provider issuing the card. Additionally, the cardgenerally remains in the user's purse or wallet, serving as anadvertisement or reminder to revisit the associated retailer. Gift cardsprovide a number of advantages to both the consumer and the retailer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention relates to a financial transactioncard including a first member, a second member, a side wall, at leastone substantially rigid connection member, and an account identifier.The first member defines a first panel, and the first panel issubstantially planar. The second member defines a second panel, and thesecond panel is substantially planar. The second member is formed as aseparate piece as compared to the first member. The side wall extendsbetween the first panel and the second panel such that the first panelis spaced from the second panel to define a void between the first paneland the second panel. The at least one substantially rigid connectionmember extends through the first member and interfaces with the secondmember to at least partially couple the first member to the secondmember. The account identifier associates the financial transaction cardwith an account or record having a value associated therewith such thatthe financial transaction card is configured for use toward the purchaseprice of one or more of goods and services. Other related products andmethods are also disclosed and provide additional advantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will be described with respect to thefigures, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and inwhich:

FIG. 1 is an exploded, top perspective view of one embodiment of astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a bottom view of one embodiment of a base the stored-valuecard of FIG. 1, according to the present invention.

FIG. 2B is a top view of one embodiment of the base of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3A is a bottom view of one embodiment of a cover of thestored-value card of FIG. 1, according to the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a top view of one embodiment of the cover of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is a bottom, perspective view of one embodiment of a button of astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a top view of one embodiment of an electrical assembly of astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 5A is a block diagram of the electrical assembly of FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 is a top view of one embodiment of a partially assembledstored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 6 taken along the line A-A.

FIG. 7A is a front view of one embodiment of an unfolded carrier for astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 7B is a back view of the unfolded carrier of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8A is a front view of the unfolded carrier of FIG. 7A supporting astored-value card, according to the present invention.

FIG. 8B is a back view of the carrier of FIG. 7A partially folded andsupporting a stored-value card, according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A gift card or other stored-value card is adapted for making purchasesof goods and/or services from, e.g., a retail store or website.According to one embodiment, an original consumer buys the stored-valuecard to give a recipient who in turn is able to use the stored-valuecard at a retail store or setting to pay for goods and/or services. Thestored-value card, according to embodiments of the present invention,provides the consumer and recipient with extra amusement in addition tothe ability to pay for goods and/or services with the stored-value card.

In particular, the stored-value card provides a bearer of thestored-value card with a collective audio and visual presentation thatincludes viewing decorative indicia of the stored-value card, hearing anaudio file related to the decorative indicia, and illuminating a lightincluded in the stored-value card. In one embodiment, the collectiveaudio and visual presentation not only amuses the bearer, but alsoentices potential consumers to buy and/or load the stored-value card.

In some embodiments, the audio file of the stored-value card is relatedto a particular occasion or life event, such as a wedding, new baby,graduation, holiday, season, etc. The audio file may also relate toprinted indicia on the stored-value card for unifying the overallpresentation of the audio file and the stored-value card to the customerand/or recipient. In one embodiment, the light is incorporated tofurther enhance the appearance of the indicia. For example, in the caseof a stored-value card relating to a movie, book, video game, ortelevision show with a warrior or fighting character, the indicia depictthe warrior, the light illuminates the sword of the warrior, and thesound conveys a voice or other audio expression or audio file readilyassociated with the warrior, movie, book, video game, or televisionshow. Accordingly, the customer and/or recipient can enjoy the amusementof the audio and visual presentation, and can also use the stored-valuecard to shop for gift or other items.

Turning to the figures, FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded, top perspectiveview of one embodiment of a stored-value card according to the presentinvention generally at 10. Stored-value card 10 includes a housing 12,an electrical assembly 14, a button 16, and a face panel 18. Electricalassembly 14 stores an audio file and includes a light 20 and a speaker22. Electrical assembly 14 is generally enclosed within housing 12.Button 16 is at least partially housed within housing 12 and isconfigured to interact with electrical assembly 14. In particular, upondepression of button 16 by a user, electrical assembly 14 is activatedto illuminate light 20 and to play the audio file via speaker 22. Facepanel 18 is optionally coupled to housing 12 to provide stored-valuecard 10 with indicia relating to one or more of an occasion, season,store identifier, brand identifier, media format indicia (e.g.characters, logos, scenes, or other illustrations or photographsrelating to at least one of a movie, television show, book, video game,etc.), a sport, etc.

Housing 12 includes a first housing member 24 and a second housingmember 26. In one embodiment, first housing member 24 is a base, andsecond housing member 26 is a cover. One embodiment of base 24 isillustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Base 24 generally includes a primarypanel 30 and side walls 32, 34, 36, and 38. Primary panel 30 isgenerally planar and defines an outside surface 40 and an inside surface42 opposite outside surface 40. In one embodiment, primary panel 30 isgenerally rectangular and sized similarly to an identification card, acredit card, or other card sized to fit in a wallet of a user. In otherembodiments, primary panel 30 is otherwise shaped as a square, circle,oval, star, or any other suitable shape.

Side walls 32, 34, 36, and 38 each extend from inside surface 42 awayfrom outside surface 40 and collectively extend generally about theentire perimeter of primary panel 30. In one embodiment, each side wall32, 34, 36, and 38 extends with a generally perpendicular orientationrelative to primary panel 30. In particular, first side wall 32 extendsgenerally parallel to and is positioned opposite third side wall 36.Second side wall 34 and fourth side wall 38 each extend between firstside wall 32 and third side wall 36 opposite and generally parallel toone another.

Each side wall 32, 34, 36, and 38 extends from primary panel 30 tocollectively define an inside edge 44 opposite primary panel 30. In oneexample, inside edge 44 is formed as a stepped edge including a firstportion 46 and a second portion 48. First portion 46 extends fromprimary panel 30 a further distance than second portion 48 extends fromprimary panel 30, as illustrated with additional reference to FIG. 1. Inone example, first portion 46 extends generally about the perimeter ofsecond portion 48. In this respect, inside edge 44 is formed as astepped edge with the lower, second portion 48 being positioned justinside higher, first portion 46. In one embodiment, at least firstportion 46 forms curved or chamfered corners at the intersection of eachside wall 32, 34, 36, and 38 with another of side walls 32, 34, 36, and38.

A plurality of apertures 50 extend through primary panel 30. Moreparticularly, each aperture 50 extends from outside surface 40 throughinside surface 42. In one embodiment, an aperture 50 is positioned nearthe intersection of each side wall 32, 34, 36, and 38 with another oneof side walls 32, 34, 36, and 38. In one embodiment, apertures 50 aresized to at least partially receive a connection device, such as a screwor other substantially rigid device for coupling base 24 with cover 26.In one example, each aperture 50 allows the head of the screw or otherattachment device to be recessed and, accordingly, includes a slightlylarger section nearer outside surface 40 than near inside surface 42. Inone embodiment, a cylindrical protrusion 52 extends from inside surface42 around each aperture 50.

Outside surface 40 includes an account identifier 60 such as a bar code,magnetic strip, a smart chip or other electronic device, a radiofrequency identification device, or other suitable identifier readilyreadable by a point-of-sale terminal or other account access station orkiosk. In one embodiment, account identifier 60 is printed on outsidesurface 40 of base 24. Account identifier 60 indicates a financialaccount or record to which stored-value card 10 is linked. The accountor record of the monetary balance on stored-value card 10 optionally ismaintained on a database, other electronic or manual record-keepingsystem, or, in the case of “smart” cards for example, on a chip or otherelectronics or devices on stored-value card 10 itself. Accordingly, byscanning account identifier 60, a financial account or record linked tostored-value card 10 is identified and can subsequently be activated,have amounts are debited therefrom, and/or have amounts added thereto.With the above in mind, account identifier 60 is one example of meansfor linking stored-value card 10 with a financial account or record.

In one embodiment, redemption indicia 62, which are generally indicatedas a dashed box in FIG. 2A, are included on outside surface 40.Redemption indicia 62 indicate that stored-value card 10 is redeemablefor the purchase of goods and/or services and that, upon use, a value ofthe purchased goods and/or services will be deducted from the financialaccount or record linked to stored-value card 10. In one embodiment,redemption indicia 62 include phrases such as “<NAME OF STORE> GiftCard”and “This GiftCard is redeemable for merchandise or services at any ofour stores or at our web site,” and/or provides help or phone lineinformation in case of a lost, stolen, or damaged stored-value card,etc. In one embodiment, other indicia are also included on outsidesurface 40. In one example, redemption indicia 62 include the followingor a similar statement:

-   -   This GiftCard is redeemable for merchandise or services at any        of our stores or at our web site. This GiftCard is not        redeemable for cash or credit except where required by law. No        value until purchased. For balance information or to report a        lost, stolen or damaged card, call 1-800-555-5555. We can        replace the remaining value on a lost, stolen or damaged card        with the original purchase receipt.

One embodiment of cover 26 is illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B. Cover 26generally includes a primary panel 70 and side walls 72, 74, 76, and 78.Primary panel 70 is generally planar and defines an outside surface 80and an inside surface 82 opposite outside surface 80. In one embodiment,primary panel 70 is generally sized similarly to primary panel 30 ofbase 24. Side walls 72, 74, 76, and 78 each extend from inside surface82 and collectively extend generally about the entire perimeter ofprimary panel 70. For example, each side wall 72, 74, 76, and 78 extendswith a generally perpendicular orientation relative to primary panel 70.In particular, first side wall 72 is positioned opposite and generallyparallel to third side wall 76. Second side wall 74 and fourth side wall78 extend between first side wall 72 and third side wall 76 opposite andgenerally parallel to one another.

Each side wall 72, 74, 76, and 78 extends from primary panel 70 tocollectively form an inside edge 84 opposite primary panel 70. In oneembodiment, inside edge 84 is a stepped edge including a first portion86 and a second portion 88. In one embodiment, first portion 86 extendsfrom primary panel 70 a smaller distance than second portion 88 extendsfrom primary panel 70. First portion 86 extends around the perimeter ofsecond portion 88. In this respect, inside edge 84 is formed as astepped edge with higher, second portion 88 being positioned just insidelower, first portion 86. In one embodiment, the corners of inside edge84 formed at the intersections of side walls 72, 74, 76, and 78 withanother of side walls 72, 74, 76, and 78 are rounded or chamfered.

Cover 26 includes a plurality of protrusions 90 extending from insidesurface 82 parallel to side walls 72, 74, 76, and 78. One protrusion 90is positioned near each of the corners of edge 84 (i.e. near theintersections of side walls 72, 74, 76, and 78 with another side wall72, 74, 76, and 78). In one embodiment, each protrusion 90 extendsfurther from inside surface 82 than each side wall 72, 74, 76, and 78extend beyond inside surface 82. Each protrusion 90 is positioned oncover 26 to generally align with one of apertures 50 of base 24 uponassembly. A threaded cavity 92 is formed within each protrusion 90. Inone embodiment, each threaded cavity 92 is configured to receive a screwor other connection device for coupling base 24 with cover 26.

In one example, a plurality of speaker apertures 94 are defined throughprimary panel 70. The plurality of speaker apertures 94 are configuredto facilitate transfer of sound from speaker 22 out of stored-value card10 during use. A light aperture 96 is defined through primary panel 70.Light aperture 96 is configured to allow light waves or illumination toexit stored-value card 10 from the at least one light 20. In oneembodiment, the size and shape of light aperture 96 is dependent uponthe overall aesthetic effect of stored-value card 10, as will be furtherdescribed below. In one example, a plurality of light apertures 96 aredefined in primary panel 70.

A button aperture 98 extends through primary panel 70 and is sized andshaped to receive button 16. In one embodiment, a raised rim 100 extendsupward from inside surface 82 generally around the perimeter of buttonaperture 98. In one example, button aperture 98 and raised rim 100 arepositioned to correspond with at least a portion of the positioning ofelectrical assembly 14, as will be further described below.

In view of the above, outside surface 80 partially defines buttonaperture 98, the plurality of speaker apertures 94, and the at least onelight aperture 96. In addition, in one embodiment, a panel indentation102 is defined by outside surface 80 and is sized and configured toreceive face panel 18. In one embodiment, outside surface 80 is directlyprinted with or otherwise includes indicia relating to at least one of abrand, store identifier, holiday, occasion, character, sport, mediaformats indicia, etc.

In one embodiment, each of base 24 and cover 26 is formed by injectionmolding of a plastic such as PVC or any other suitable material todefine the various attributes of base 24 and cover 26. Other methods offorming base 24 and cover 26 are also contemplated. In one embodiment,in which base 24 is formed by injection molding, account identifier 60,redemption indicia 62, and any other indicia or information are printedonto the injection molded base 24.

In one example, base 24 and cover 26 are each formed of materials havinga similar or identical color. In other examples, base 24 and cover 26may be formed of materials having different coloring. For instance, inone embodiment, base 24 is colored white to best display the printedaccount identifier 60, redemption indicia 62, etc. on its outer surface40 while cover 26 is a different color to correspond with and/orcomplement the coloring of face panel 18.

Face panel 18 is generally planar and is formed of paper, plastic, orother suitable material. In one embodiment, face panel 18 is sized tofit within panel indentation 102 of cover 26. With this in mind, facepanel 18 includes a first, outside surface 110 and a second, insidesurface 112. First surface 110 includes indicia such as decorativeindicia 114, brand indicia 116, and a button indicator 118. In oneembodiment, decorative indicia 114 relate to a particular occasion orlife event such as a wedding, new baby, graduation, holiday, season,etc., a particular character, brand identifier, media format identifieror other visual design to promote purchase of stored-value card 10. Inone particular embodiment, decorative indicia 114 include a picture or agraphic representing a character of a particular media format.

Brand indicia 116 identify a brand associated with stored-value card 10,such as identifying a product brand, a store brand, other indiciareadily associated with a product or store, etc. Indicia 114 and/or 116is an example of means for associating stored-value card 10 with atleast one of a product, a brand, a store, a holiday, a season, anoccasion, and media format indicia.

Button indicator 118 is positioned on face panel 18 to generally alignwith button 16 upon assembly. In this respect, button indicator 118indicates an area or location of stored-value card 10 where the bearer,e.g. the customer or recipient, can push stored-value card 10 to hearthe stored audio file and illuminate light 20, as will be furtherdescribed below. Other combinations or selections of indicia to bedisplayed on face panel 18 are also contemplated. In an alternateembodiment, indicia described to be included on face panel 18 aredistinctly printed to cover 26. In one embodiment, first, outsidesurface 110 of face panel 18 is printed and finished in any one of avariety of manners such as matte, gloss, textured, or other effectfinish. In one embodiment, the finish chosen for first, outside surface110 further complements the indicia included on first, outside surface110.

In one embodiment, face panel 18 includes a plurality of speakerapertures 120 extending throughout face panel 18 and configured togenerally align with at least a portion of speaker apertures 94 of cover26 upon assembly of stored-value card 10. In this respect, sound comingfrom electrical assembly 14 has a generally clear pathway through atleast a portion of speaker apertures 94 of cover 26 and speakerapertures 120 of face panel 18.

In one example, at least one light aperture 122 extends through facepanel 18. Light aperture 122 is positioned on face panel 18 to generallyalign with or otherwise correspond with the position of the at least onelight 20 of stored-value card 10 upon assembly. As such, in oneembodiment, light aperture 122 is positioned to generally align withlight aperture 96 of cover 26 upon assembly of stored-value card 10.Accordingly, light aperture 122 permits light waves or illumination fromlight(s) 20 to escape housing 12 and to reach the bearer or other viewerof stored-value card 10. In one embodiment, light aperture 122 ispositioned as part of or to correspond or complement at least a portionof decorative indicia 114. Otherwise stated, light aperture 122 depictsor represents a first portion of a subject or scene and decorativeindicia depicts a second portion of the subject or scene to collectivelydepict the entire subject or scene. For example, when decorative indicia114 include a warrior, light aperture 122 may be shaped and positionedas a sword being used by the warrior. Other configurations andcombinations of decorative indicia 114 and light aperture(s) 122 arealso contemplated.

Second, inside surface 112 is configured to interface with cover 26within indentation 102. In one embodiment, face panel 18 is adhered tocover 26 with any suitable adhesive. In other embodiments, face panel 18is formed on an adhesive backed plastic, paper, cardstock, etc. and isdirectly applied and adhered to cover 26.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of button 16 ofstored-value card 10. Button 16 generally includes a relatively shorthollow cylinder 132, an end wall 134, and a pin 136. End wall 134extends across one end of hollow cylinder 132. Pin 136 extends from endwall 134 through the center of cylinder 132. In one embodiment, pin 136extends from end wall 134 a distance further than cylinder 132 extendsfrom end wall 134. Pin 136 is relatively rigid. A ring or rim 138extends about the perimeter of cylinder 132 on an end opposite end wall134. More particularly, rim 138 extends radially outwardly from cylinder132 and, therefore, has a larger diameter than cylinder 132. Cylinder132 is sized with a diameter sufficient to fit within button aperture98. Conversely, rim 138 has a diameter greater than the overall diameterof button aperture 98 and raised rim 100 of cover 26.

As illustrated in FIG. 5 and in the block diagram of FIG. 5A, electricalassembly 14 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 140, an integratedcircuit or chip 142, at least one battery 144, a switch 146, light(s)20, and speaker 22. Integrated circuit 142 is mounted to PCB 140.Integrated circuit 142 is electrically coupled to each of the othercomponents 144, 146, 20, and 22 of electrical circuit 14 via a pluralityof connector wires 148. In one embodiment, PCB 140 includes electricaltraces, one or more resistors, one or more capacitors, and/or anysuitable number of other electrical components facilitating the properfunction of electrical assembly 14 and/or electrical connection ofelectrical components to integrated circuit 142. In one embodiment, eachcomponent 142, 144, 146, 20, and/or 22 is mounted to a PCB similar tobut larger than PCB 140.

In one embodiment, integrated circuit 142 includes a memory 150, e.g.read-only memory (ROM) or other suitable memory. Integrated circuit 142is programmed during manufacturing to store a digitized sound recordingor audio file 152 to memory 150. In one embodiment, audio file 152relates to and/or is readily identifiable as being associated with atleast a portion of decorative indicia 114 of face panel 18. Accordingly,audio file 152 is one example of means for associating stored-value card10 with at least one of a product brand, a store, a holiday, a season,an occasion, media format indicia, a sport, etc.

During use, integrated circuit 142 is configured to generate or produceaudio file 152. Integrated circuit 142, and more particularly, memory150, is one example of means for storing a sound file associated withstored-value card 10. Integrated circuit 142 also facilitates and/orregulates the flow of electric current from the at least one battery 144to the at least one light 20. In one embodiment, integrated circuit 142and/or light 20 includes a timer (not shown) for regulating the lengthof time light 20 is illuminated following depression of switch 146. Inone example, the current drawn by integrated circuit 142 during times ofnon-illumination and non-playing of audio file 152, is sufficiently lowto allow, for a number of months or years, the at least one battery 144to provide power to electrical assembly 14.

In one embodiment, voice integrated circuit 142 additionally includes arecording element 156 configured to record personalized messages forsubsequent replay to the recipient of stored-value card 10. Recordingelement 156 includes or is coupled to a microphone or other suitablerecording device for receiving an audio message. Upon depression ofswitch 146 or a second switch similar to switch 146, recording element156 is activated to capture a personalized audio message spoken orplayed generally toward stored-value card 10. The personalized audiomessage is stored to memory 150 as audio file 152 and is played back tothe bearer upon depression of switch 146. For instance, the personalizedaudio message may wish a particular recipient congratulations, happybirthday, good wishes, etc. in a personalized manner not generallyavailable from audio files 152 recorded during manufacturing ofstored-value card 10 as described above.

Battery 144 provides electrical power to the other components 146, 142,20, and 22 of electrical circuit 14. In one embodiment, battery 144 isan alkaline battery such as a standard AG10 1.5 volt battery or anyother suitable battery. In one embodiment, switch 146 is a snap orpressure sensitive switch. Depression of switch 146 serves to closeelectrical circuit 14 and to activate integrated circuit 142, which inturn forwards audio file 152 or a representation thereof to speaker 22to be played and forwards electric current from battery 144 to lights 20to effectuate illumination of stored-value card 10.

Speaker 22 is any suitable speaker capable of converting the audio file152 received from integrated circuit 142 into sound waves perceivable bythe bearer of stored-value card 10, e.g. the customer and/or recipient.For example, speaker 22 is a 27 mm speaker or any other suitably sizedspeaker 22. Integrated circuit 142 and speaker 22 are one example ofmeans for generating sound within stored-value card 10.

In one embodiment, each light 20 includes a light-emitting diode (LED),although any other suitable source of illumination may be alternativelyor additionally utilized. Light 20 is one of a clear or colored light.Although two lights 20 are illustrated, use of any other suitable numberof lights 20 is also contemplated. Lights 20 are one example of meansfor selectively illuminating at least a portion of stored-value card 10.In one embodiment, electrical assembly 14 includes a mounting block 154coupled to one of light 20 to facilitate coupling of light 20 to housing12, as will be described below.

As illustrated with reference to FIG. 1, in one embodiment, stored-valuecard 10 includes one or more of a color filter 160, a diffuser ordiffusive sheet 162, and/or a light directing device 164. Color filter160 is generally similarly shaped as light aperture 96 of cover 26, butcolor filter 160 is generally slightly larger than light aperture 96.Color filter 160 alters light that passes through color filter 160, forexample by blocking one or more light wavelengths from being emittedthrough color filter 160. By blocking certain wavelengths and permittingother wavelengths to pass, color filter 160 alters the color of light tobe emitted from stored-value card 10. In one embodiment, color filter160 is a colored piece of cellophane, translucent plastic, or othersuitable filters.

Diffusive sheet 162 is generally similarly shaped as light aperture 96of cover 26, but diffusive sheet 162 is generally slightly larger thanlight aperture 95. Diffusive sheet 162 generally diffuses light emittedfrom light 20 and that passes through diffusive sheet 162 to more evenlyemit light through light aperture 96 and out of stored-value card 10. Inone example, diffusive sheet 162 includes black or other light blockingstrips 166 longitudinally extending along one or both sides of diffusivesheet 162. Light blocking strips 166 block light from being emittedthrough the strip(s) 166 and, in one embodiment, cause light emittedfrom light 20 to be more precisely directed through other areas ofdiffusive sheet 162.

Light directing device 164 generally prevents or decreases light emittedfrom light 20 from being emitted and scattered throughout the inside ofhousing 12 and, rather, directs light to be emitted through lightaperture 96 of cover 26. In one example, light directing device 164defines a U-shaped portion 170 and connection tabs 172, as illustratedwith additional reference to FIG. 6A. U-shaped portion 170 is configuredto reflect light from light 20 towards an opening 174 of U-shapedportion 170, which aligns with light aperture 96 of cover 26 uponassembly of stored-value card 10. Each connection tab 172 extendslongitudinally along an opposite side of U-shaped portion 170 and areconfigured to be coupled to housing 12 of stored-value card 10.

During assembly, electrical assembly 14 is coupled to housing 12. Inparticular, PCB 140 supporting integrated circuit 142 is adhered tocover 26. The at least one light 20 is coupled to cover 26 to generallycorrespond with light aperture 96. More specifically, in one example, afirst light 20 is coupled to cover 26 near a first end of the elongatedlight aperture 96, and a second light 20 is coupled to cover 26 near asecond end of the light aperture 96. In one example, each light 20 isdirected toward the light aperture 96. In one embodiment, at least onelight 20 is mounted to cover 26 by being adhered to mounting block 154,which is adhered to cover 26. In one embodiment, at least one light 20is coupled to a side wall 72, 74, 76, or 78 of cover 26. Each ofmounting block 154 and/or side wall 72, 74, 76, or 78 serves to maintainany of the respective lights 20 spaced slightly from primary panel 70.

The at least one battery 144 is coupled to cover 26 in areas not alreadyoccupied by PCB 140, speaker 22, and lights 20. In one embodiment, theat least one battery 144 is generally positioned so as not to interferewith light dispersion between the two lights 20 and/or through lightaperture 96 of cover 26. In other embodiments, components 140, 142, 144,146, 20, 22 are adhered to cover 26 rather than base 24 and/or viceversa.

In one example, switch 146 is coupled to base 24 to align with buttonaperture 98 upon assembly. Accordingly, button 16 is positioned withinbutton aperture 98 to align with switch 146 upon assembly ofstored-value card 10. More specifically, cylinder 132 of button 16 fitswithin rim 100 about button aperture 98 and rim 138 of button 16interfaces with and extends over rim 100 of button aperture 98, therebycoupling button 16 to cover 26. In this respect, rim 138 of buttongenerally prevents button 16 from falling though button aperture 98towards the outside of cover 26.

In one embodiment, color filter 160 is coupled to cover 26 betweenlights 20 to extend across light aperture 96 of cover 26. Diffuser 162is coupled to cover 26 and/or color filter 160 to extend across lightaperture 96. In one embodiment, only one of color filter 160 anddiffuser 162 are included and extend across light aperture 96. Forexample, in one embodiment, lights 20 are colored lights and, therefore,color filter 160 is emitted from stored-value card 10.

Light directing device 164 is coupled to cover 26, color filter 160,and/or diffuser 162 and also extends across light aperture. Inparticular, light directing device 164 is positioned such that eachlight 20 fits at least partially within U-shaped portion 170 withopening 174 of U-shaped portion 170 being directed toward light aperture96 of cover 26. Once positioned, connection tabs 172 of light directingdevice 164 are adhered to cover 26 directly and/or via color filter 160and/or diffuser 162. Accordingly, when illuminated, light is emittedfrom light 20, a portion of the light is reflected off of internalsurfaces of light directing device 164 and directed toward lightaperture 96. The directed light passes through diffuser 162 and colorfilter 160 to exit stored-value card 10 as a generally even emission ofcolored light through light aperture 96.

Once electrical assembly 14, button 16, color filter 160, diffuser 162,and/or light directing device 164 are in place within housing 12, cover26 is placed upon base 24, or vice versa. Accordingly, base 24 is placedon cover 26 such that inside edge 44 of base 24 interfaces with insideedge 84 of cover 26. More specifically, first portion 46 and secondportion 48 of inside edge 44 interface with first portion 86 and secondportion 88 of inside edge 84, respectively. The stepped interfaceprovides for a stable and generally neat coupling of base 24 and cover26.

Once base 24 and cover 26 are mated, each aperture 50 in base 24generally aligns with one of the plurality of threaded cavities 92 incover 26, and button 16 generally aligns with switch 146 of electricalassembly 14. More specifically, pin 136 of button 16 is generallycentered on switch 146. Attachment mechanisms, such as screws 180, arethreaded through apertures 50 and into threaded cavities 92. In thisrespect, base 24 is secured to cover 26. Other methods of securing base24 to cover 26 are also contemplated. In one embodiment, assembledhousing 12 is generally about 54 mm wide, about 85.6 mm long, and about7 mm thick.

Once base 24 is secured to cover 26, face panel 18 is applied to outsidesurface 80 of cover 26. In particular, face panel 18 is fit and adheredwithin panel indentation 102 to generally align speaker apertures 120 offace panel 18 with speaker apertures 94 of cover 26. Light aperture 122of face panel 18 is generally aligned with light aperture 96 of cover26. When aligned and placed on cover 26, button indicator 118 generallyaligns with button 16. In one embodiment, face panel 18 is also adheredto end wall 134 of button 16. In other embodiments, face panel 18 isapplied to cover 26 before assembling cover 26 with electrical assembly14, button 16, or base 24. In other embodiments, face panel 18 isapplied to cover 26 before assembling cover 26 with button 16 and/orbase 24.

Upon assembly, stored-value card 10 functions to both amuse the bearer,e.g. the consumer or the recipient, and to entice consumers to purchasestored-value card 10. In particular, upon a consumer or recipientpressing face panel 18 in a position corresponding with button indicator118, button 16 is depressed thereby also depressing switch 146 ofelectrical assembly 14. Depression of switch 146 causes the audio filestored to integrated circuit 142 to be played via speaker 22 and lights20 to be illuminated. The audio file sound waves travel throughstored-value card 10, in particular, speaker apertures 94 and 120, andthe light emitted escapes through light apertures 96 and 122 to reachthe bearer of stored-value card 10. Therefore, the bearer is presentedwith both a stored-value card and a source of additional amusement. Facepanel 18, button 16, and/or switch 146 are examples of means foractivating stored-value card 10 to play audio file 152 and to illuminatelight 20.

In particular, additionally referring to FIGS. 5 and 5A, depression ofswitch 146 closes the electrical circuit of electrical assembly 14,thereby drawing current from the at least one battery 144 to integratedcircuit 142. Electrical signals corresponding to audio file 152 ofintegrated circuit 142 are sent to speaker 22, thereby driving speaker22 to produce sound waves corresponding with audio file 152. The soundwaves travel through stored-value card 10, in particular, apertures 114and 130, to reach the customer, recipient, or other bearer ofstored-value card 10. In additional, integrated circuit 142 forwardselectrical current to lights 20, thereby illuminating lights 20, whichin turn illuminate decorative indicia 114 visible to the card bearer.

When audio file 152 is finished playing and lights 20 are finishedilluminating, integrated circuit 142 automatically deactivates or shutsoff. In one embodiment, the current drawn by integrated circuit 142during its inactive state is sufficiently low to allow the at least onebattery 144 to provide power to audio circuit 14 for a number of monthsor years. Accordingly, the customer and/or recipient are presented withboth a stored-value card and a source of additional amusement.

In particular, in one embodiment, the source of additional amusement isa collective audio and visual presentation provided by viewingdecorative indicia 124 and illumination from light 20 and hearing audiofile 152. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the decorativeindicia 124 includes a character, for example, a warrior having a swordthat is illuminated by light 20, and the audio file 152 includes anaudible expression readily associated with the character, for example, acharacteristic quote or manner of breathing. As such, the lightedcharacter and the audible expression provide an audio and visualpresentation that amuses the bearer of stored-value card 10. Use ofother characters, e.g. characters from movies, books, television, videogames, characters representing other life events, clip art, etc., andother audible expressions, e.g. quotes, laughs, songs, etc., are alsocontemplated. In one embodiment, the collective audio and visualpresentation of stored-value card 10 in a retail setting enticespotential consumers to purchase and/or load stored-value card 10.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a carrier or backer 200 for supportingstored-value card 10 in an unfolded or open configuration. Backer 200comprises a single layer or multiple layers of paper or plasticmaterial, for example, generally in the form of a relatively stiff butbendable/flexible card. Other materials are also contemplated. In oneembodiment, backer 200 is a generally planar substrate having agenerally elongated or rectangular shape. Accordingly, backer 200defines a first surface 202 (FIG. 7A) and a second surface 204 (FIG. 7B)opposite first surface 202. A tab 206 is generally centered at a firstlateral end of backer 200. In one example, a support arm aperture 208 isdefined within tab 206 and is configured to receive a support arm orhook. As such, an open backer 200 can be hung on the support arm or hookfor display in a retail store.

Fold lines 210 and 212 each extend laterally across backer 200 and arespaced longitudinally from one another. More specifically, fold lines210 are positioned relatively near tab 206 as compared to fold lines212. A first panel 214, a second or intermediate panel 216, and a thirdpanel 218 are defined by the position of fold lines 210 and 212. Firstpanel 214 extends from fold lines 210 away from fold line 212 andincludes tab 206. Second or intermediate panel 216 extends between foldlines 210 and 212. Third panel 218 extends from fold lines 212 in adirection opposite fold lines 210. A laterally extending slit 220 islaterally centered on third panel 216.

In one example, first surface 202 includes indicia 222 generallyindicating where stored-value card 10 (illustrated in FIG. 1) will beadhered to first surface 202 of intermediate panel 216. Accordingly,indicia 222 are longitudinally centered on intermediate panel 216. Inone embodiment, backer 200 additionally includes a fold line 224laterally extending across intermediate panel 216, more particularlyacross indicia 222 of intermediate panel 216.

In one embodiment, backer 200 displays additional indicia, graphics ortext information including store logo(s), store name(s), slogans,advertising, instructions, directions, brand indicia, promotionalinformation, media format identifiers (e.g. characters, logos, scenes,or other illustrations relating to at least one of a movie, televisionshow, book, etc.), characters, and/or other information. For example,first surface 202 includes indicia 230, 232, 234, and/or 236. Indicia230 include to, from, initial gift card value, and message fields. Inone embodiment, captions within the fields of indicia 230 are related toindicia 114 of stored-value card 10. In one example, where decorativeindicia 114 illustrate a warrior, the captions of indicia 230 mayinclude phrases such as “To Warrior” and “From Commander,” etc.

Indicia 232, which are generally depicted as a dashed box in FIG. 7A,indicate that stored-value card 10 is redeemable for the purchase ofgoods and/or services and that, upon use, a value of the purchased goodsand/or services will be deducted from the financial account or recordlinked to stored-value card 10. In one embodiment, indicia 232 includephrases such as “<NAME OF STORE> GiftCard” and “This GiftCard isredeemable for merchandise or services at any of our stores or at ourwebsite,” and/or provides help or phone line information in case of alost, stolen, or damaged stored-value card 10, etc. In one example,indicia 232 include the following or a similar statement:

-   -   This GiftCard is redeemable for merchandise or services at any        of our stores or at our web site. This GiftCard is not        redeemable for cash or credit except where required by law. No        value until purchased. For balance information or to report a        lost, stolen or damaged card, call 1-800-555-5555. We can        replace the remaining value on a lost, stolen or damaged card        with the original purchase receipt.

Indicia 234 are decorative indicia that generally improve the aestheticappeal of backer 200. In one embodiment, decorative indicia 234 arepositioned and configured to correspond with or incorporate decorativeindicia 114 of stored-value card 10 upon placement of stored-value card10 on backer 200 as will be further described below.

Indicia 236 identify a store, brand, department, media title or logo,e.g. a title or logo of a move, book television show, video game, etc.associated with stored-value card 10, etc. In one embodiment, indicia236 are additionally or alternatively included on first surface 202 andsecond surface 204 of backer 200. Additional information besides thatspecifically described and illustrated herein also may be included.Other indicia, e.g. indicia promoting that stored-value card 10 includesa playable sound or audible file and/or that stored-value card 10includes a light or that value can always be reloaded to stored-valuecard 10, are also contemplated. Any of indicia 230, 232, 234, 236, orother indicia, optionally may appear anywhere on backer 200 orstored-value card 10.

Backer 200 is configured to receive stored-value card 10 on firstsurface 202 of intermediate panel 216 as illustrated with additionalreference to FIGS. 8A and 8B. In particular, stored-value card 10 isreleasably adhered or otherwise secured to intermediate panel 216 asindicated by indicia 222 (illustrated in FIG. 7A). In one example, oncestored-value card 10 is secured to backer 200, decorative indicia 114 ofstored-value card 10 coordinate with decorative indicia 234 of backer200. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8A, decorative indicia 114 ofstored-value card 10 illustrate a first portion of a warrior scene anddecorative indicia 234 illustrate a second portion of the warrior scene.Accordingly, decorative indicia 114 and 234 collectively illustrate alarger warrior scene than either of decorative indicia 114 or 234illustrate alone.

In one embodiment, backer 200 is hung from a support arm or hook fordisplay in a retail setting in a manner in which at least stored-valuecard 10 and a portion of first surface 202 of backer 200 is visible topotential consumers. In this manner, potential consumers are able todepress button 16 of stored-value card 10 to be provided with the audioand visual presentation, which entices the potential consumer topurchase stored-value card 10.

During purchase, first panel 214 and an adjacent portion of intermediatepanel 216 are folded back about fold line 224 as illustrated in FIG. 8Bto expose a portion of outside surface 40 of stored-value card 10. Inparticular, the exposed portion of outside surface 40 includes accountidentifier 60. As previously described, account identifier 60 is adaptedfor accessing a financial account or record associated with stored-valuecard 10 for activating, loading, or debiting from the account or record.Accordingly, by folding backer 200 about fold line 224, accountidentifier 60 is accessible to activate and/or load stored-value card 10without removing stored-value card 10 from backer 200.

Backer 200 is configured such that after purchase first panel 214 andthird panel 218 are foldable about fold lines 210 and 212, respectively,to enclose or selectively wrap stored-value card 10 as desired. Moreparticularly, third panel 218 is rotated about fold lines 212 so thatfirst surface 202 of third panel 218 is moved towards first surface 202of intermediate panel 216. Then, first panel 214 is rotated about foldlines 210 so that first surface 202 of first panel 214 is moved towardfirst surface 202 of intermediate panel 216. In one embodiment, eachfold line 210 and 212 includes two longitudinally spaced fold lines tomore easily accommodate the thickness of stored-value card 10 whenbacker 200 is in a folded position. In this respect, first panel 214 atleast partially overlaps third panel 218. Tab 206 is slid into slit 220of third panel 218 to selectively lock backer 200 in a folded or closedposition (not shown) about stored-value card 10. Folding of first andthird panels 214 and 218 of backer 200 in the opposite directions aboutfold lines 210 and 212 for display in a retail store is alsocontemplated.

When in the folded position, stored-value card 10 is selectively wrappedfor presentation to a recipient of stored-value card 10. Upon receipt,the recipient unfolds backer 200 to access stored-value card 10.Accordingly, recipient or other bearer can depress button 16 to beprovided with and amused by the audio and visual presentation ofstored-value card 10. Backers similar to backer 200 can be used withvarious sizes and shapes of stored-value card 10. Other backers orpackages are also contemplated for supporting stored-value card 10.

Stored-value cards come in many forms, according to embodiments of theinvention. The gift card, like other stored-value cards, can be“re-charged” or “reloaded” at the direction of the original consumer,the gift recipient, or third party. The term “loading on” or “loaded on”herein should be interpreted to include adding to the balance of afinancial account or record associated with a stored-value card. Thebalance associated with a stored-value card declines as the card isused, encouraging repeat visits. The card remains in the user's purse orwallet, serving as an advertisement or reminder to re-visit theassociated merchant. Gift cards, according to embodiments of theinvention, provide a number of advantages to both the consumer and themerchant. Other gift cards and stored-value cards according toembodiments of the invention include loyalty cards, merchandise returncards, electronic gift certificates, employee cards, frequency cards,pre-paid cards, and other types of cards associated with or representingpurchasing power or monetary value, for example.

Although the invention has been described with respect to particularembodiments, such embodiments are for illustrative purposes only andshould not be considered to limit the invention. Various alternativesand changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Forexample, stored-value card 10 optionally is a physical card made ofplastic, paper, generally stiff paper, other substrate, or the like.Adding value to stored-value card 10 optionally includes adding either afixed amount or an amount that can be chosen by the customer or otheruser. Other modifications within the scope of the invention in itsvarious embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill.

What is claimed is:
 1. A financial transaction card comprising: a firstmember defining a first panel, the first panel being substantiallyplanar and defining an external surface and an outer perimeter; a secondmember defining a second panel, the second panel being substantiallyplanar, and the second member being formed as a separate piece ascompared to the first member; a side wall extending between the firstpanel and the second panel such that the first panel is spaced from thesecond panel to define a void between the first panel and the secondpanel; an electrical assembly maintained within the void, wherein theelectrical assembly includes an activation area and at least one of alight and a speaker, and user interaction with the activation areacauses activation of the electrical assembly including at least one ofillumination of the light and audio emission via the speaker; a facepanel formed separately from each of the first member and the secondmember and adhered to the external surface of the first panel, whereinthe face panel has an outer perimeter smaller than the outer perimeterof the first panel, and the face panel extends over the activation areasuch that user interaction with the activation area is performed atleast partially via the face panel; and an account identifierassociating the financial transaction card with an account or recordhaving a value associated therewith such that the financial transactioncard is configured for use toward the purchase price of one or more ofgoods and services.
 2. The financial transaction card of claim 1,wherein the side wall extends around a substantial entirety of aperimeter of each of the first panel and the second panel.
 3. Thefinancial transaction card of claim 1, wherein each of the first paneland the second panel define at least a portion of an external surface ofthe financial transaction card.
 4. The financial transaction card ofclaim 3, wherein the side wall extends in a direction substantiallyperpendicular to an extension of the first panel and the second panel.5. The financial transaction card of claim 1, wherein the first paneland the second panel are substantially parallel to one another, each ofthe first panel and the second panel define at least a portion of anexternal surface of the financial transaction card, the side wall ispartially formed by each of the first member and the second member, theside wall is formed partially by each of the first member and the secondmember, and the first member and the second member interface in astepped configuration and directly abut one another in a steppedconfiguration.
 6. The financial transaction card of claim 1, wherein atleast portions of the void remain unoccupied when the first member iscoupled to the second member and the electrical assembly is maintainedwithin the void.
 7. The financial transaction card of claim 1, whereinthe side wall is substantially planar and defines an inside surfaceimmediately adjacent the void and an outside surface positioned oppositethe inside surface and on an exterior of the financial transaction card.8. The financial transaction card of claim 1, further comprising atleast one substantially rigid connection member extending from theexternal surface of the first panel to interface with the second member.9. The financial transaction card of claim 8, wherein: the second paneldefines an inside surface; the second member includes at least oneprotrusion extending away from the inside surface of the second panelinto the void; the at least one protrusion defines a threaded internalcavity; and the at least one substantially rigid connection memberextends through the first panel and into the threaded internal cavity ofthe at least one protrusion to couple the first member with the secondmember.
 10. The financial transaction card of claim 9, wherein each ofthe first member and the second member are formed as a single piece ofplastic.
 11. The financial transaction card of claim 1, wherein one ofthe first panel and the second panel defines an aperture.
 12. Thefinancial transaction card of claim 11, further comprising a buttonextending from the void and through the aperture and selectivelyinterfacing with the activation area.
 13. The financial transaction cardof claim 11, further comprising one or more lights positioned within thevoid near the aperture such that illumination from the lights is visiblefrom a vantage point external to the financial transaction card via theaperture.
 14. The financial transaction card of claim 1, furthercomprising a button extending through the first panel and being placedin contact with and covered by the face panel, wherein the buttoninterfaces with the activation area such that user interaction with acorresponding portion of the face panel moves the button, whichinteracts with the activation area of the electrical assembly, toactivate the electrical assembly.
 15. The financial transaction card ofclaim 14, wherein the face panel is adhered to the button.
 16. Thefinancial transaction card of claim 14, wherein the face panel at leastpartially maintains the activation button within the chamber and in aposition to interact with the electrical assembly.
 17. The financialtransaction card of claim 14, wherein the button is formed as a separatepiece from both the first member and the second member and movesrelative to each of the first member and the second member, and thebutton is substantially concealed by the face panel.
 18. The financialtransaction card of claim 1, wherein the face panel includes face panelapertures aligning with output apertures of the first member to permitaudio from the speaker to be emitted from the void via the face panelapertures and the output apertures.
 19. The financial transaction cardof claim 1, wherein the electrical assembly includes both the light andthe speaker, and depression of the activation area both plays an audiofile via the speaker and illuminates the at least one light to providean audio and visual presentation.